The Test Score Question: What the Return of Testing Means for Your Strategy

Standardized test scores are one of the many elements considered in the holistic college admissions process. While there is no minimum and set requirement for college admittance, most prestigious colleges have an average score among accepted applicants. Princeton University made an announcement that testing will be required again for Fall 2028 applicants, so what does that signal across the Ivy League and college admissions this cycle? 

Reinstating Tests 

Cornell, Harvard, Stanford, and UT Austin are among the many universities reinstating tests in the last few years. Most colleges are reinstating the standardized test score requirements because they view them as part of their holistic admissions process that, according to MIT, “better evaluates academic preparation.” Many universities share the same sentiment and are projected to reinstate the SAT and ACT in the next few admissions cycles. Meanwhile, Columbia has chosen to remain test-optional indefinitely. 

To Submit or Not to Submit 

While some schools remain test-optional, it’s best to consider whether the score you submit will be in the range of accepted students. Colleges post their average test scores for accepted students and competitive applicants almost always submit their high scores to demonstrate their academic preparedness. This past 2025-2026 cycle UPenn reinstated the test-mandatory policy. Data shows that 83% of scores submitted by UPenn admitted students landed between 1500-1600. Meanwhile, less than 1% of the submitted scores were between 1300-1390. Needless to say, if you haven’t taken a test yet, try to study effectively. It’s a good idea to remain in the range of the top accepted scores, especially when many universities are reinstating the mandatory testing policy. 

But does that mean students who have low SAT scores should not submit scores? Not necessarily. If your score is lower than the average of accepted scores, but significantly higher than your peers, you may want to consider submitting. Princeton states that “Students who opt to apply to Princeton in the 2025-26 and 2026-27 cycles without an ACT or SAT score will not be at a disadvantage in our process.” Essentially, it will not hurt to omit scores, but data shows that universities favor students with high scores. 

SAT and ACT Planning 

Consider building a realistic timeline for taking the SAT. Most students start preparing at the end of freshman year and throughout sophomore year so that by the time they are

juniors, they are ready to take the exam. Generally, you’ll want to earn your peak score towards the end of junior year and if you’re retaking the test senior year, plan on your last one being at least one month before application deadlines to ensure your score arrives in time. However, with AP and IB exams, planning the exact dates for your SAT can be overwhelming, so feel free to reach out to us at SK Education Consulting for some personalized guidance. 

Key Takeaways 

• Many universities are reinstating the SAT/ACT requirements in the next few admission cycles. Columbia remains test-optional indefinitely. 
• Plan on submitting your score, but make sure you adequately prepare for the SAT/ACT. 
• You’ll want to aim to be in the range of the top accepted scores.